Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Solar Energy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Zoning board approves rooftop solar for Windmuller and Hochschler at New England Way; FAA check added as condition
Summary
The Zoning Board of Review granted a use variance to Windmuller and Hochschler for a 291‑panel rooftop, net‑metered solar installation at 23 New England Way and added a condition that the applicant obtain a letter from airport/FAA authorities if required.
The Zoning Board of Review on Feb. 4, 2025 approved a use variance for Windmuller and Hochschler to install a rooftop, ballasted photovoltaic system at 23 New England Way. The board approved the application after a planning board recommendation and discussion about site specifics including proximity to a small nearby airport.
RISE Engineering representative Ian Strong and other project representatives described a rooftop system of exactly 291 photovoltaic panels designed for new construction on the east‑facing portion of the building; the system was presented as net‑metered and intended to offset a substantial portion of the facility’s future energy consumption. The applicant’s representative said the panels are sized for the new construction and that ground‑mounts would be obstructed by trees and would impact parking.
The planning board recommended approval in the same language it used for the earlier agenda item, saying the project is consistent with the comprehensive plan and the Lincoln zoning ordinance. During public discussion board members raised the potential for solar glare given the site’s relative proximity to North Central Airport (SFZ). The board made a condition of approval that the applicant obtain a letter from the Rhode Island Airport Corporation or the Federal Aviation Administration, if necessary, confirming no operational concerns from glare or height.
Board members also cited the site’s commercial/industrial character and the presence of trees making roof mounting the least intrusive option. The application covers the rooftop array on the new construction; representatives said exact offset percentage depends on the building’s final buildout and that battery storage is under consideration for a later phase.
Votes at a glance: planning board recommended approval 6–0; the zoning board voted to approve the variance with the stated airport/FAA confirmation condition (recorded ayes from members present).
